Just in: Barcelona vs Girona to be played at Montjuic, not Spotify Camp Nou | OneFootball

Just when it was starting to look like FC Barcelona would finally return to the Spotify Camp Nou, it appears that there will be another delay.

Recent reports had suggested that the Blaugrana will receive the necessary First Occupancy Licence in time to host the next home game against Girona, on 18 October, at the club’s redeveloped home stadium.

No Camp Nou return vs Girona

However, according to the latest update from SPORT, it will not be the case. Instead, Barcelona have decided to host Girona at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys in Montjuic, meaning a return to Camp Nou will have to wait.

The Caalans had been awaiting the First Occupancy Licence from the Barcelona City Council in order to return to the Spotify Camp Nou, but those permits have not yet been granted.

At the same time, there is an economic factor to consider. The potential return would take place during the first construction phase, with a very limited capacity of 27,000 seats.

When will Barcelona return to Camp Nou? (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Given the current circumstances and the fact that Estadi Olimpic is already in use, Barcelona have decided to maintain this venue for now, as it guarantees a capacity of 50,000 spectators – an important consideration in terms of matchday revenue.

Barcelona played their first two home games of the season at Estadi Johan Cruyff, with a 6,000 capacity, due to the unavailability of the Montjuic Stadium.

However, the La Liga champions have hosted Real Sociedad and PSG at Estadi Olimpic in Montjuic prior to the international break.

Now, it appears that the Catalan derby against Girona will also be held there, instead of Camp Nou, with an official confirmation now awaited.

Barcelona have already announced that their subsequent home match, against Olympiacos in the Champions League on 21 October, will also be held in Montjuic.

It now appears that a return to Camp Nou is being targeted in November, by which time Barcelona hope to welcome 45,000 spectators to the stadium.